Our story begins back in 2017 when we met in high school. The beginning of our senior year, our friend groups merged, and we found ourselves spending more and more time together. It didn't take long for Liam to confess to Tina's friends that he had developed a crush on her from the moment they first hung out. Their conversations grew deeper, and Tina (with a little encouragement from her dad) took the initiative and suggested that Liam take her out on a date. Without hesitation, Liam responded saying he was about to suggest the same thing. And so, on a memorable day just before Christmas, they had their first official date.
On January 12th, 2018, our love story truly began as we officially became a couple. We navigated the joys and challenges of our senior year, knowing that college was looming ahead. Liam had already secured a full Naval scholarship to Duke University, while Tina was narrowing down her options, leaning towards attending the University of New Hampshire. This allowed us to enjoy the remaining semester and summer together without the added pressure of choosing the same college.
As August approached, we realized that we had to face the inevitable decision of parting ways for college. However, neither of us wanted to be the first to bring it up. Eventually, we had an honest conversation and agreed that it would be best to break up while remaining close friends. We understood the importance of embracing the unknown and allowing ourselves to grow individually without hindering each other's new lives. Still, we made a promise to reevaluate our relationship when we reunited for Christmas break.
That first semester of college proved to be challenging for both of us, but it only solidified our belief that being together was the right choice. Our separate experiences at school reaffirmed what we already knew deep within our hearts. When we finally reunited during the holidays, it was as if no time had passed. Our love for each other had only grown stronger, and we were more certain than ever that we were meant to be.
As the years went by, we successfully navigated the challenges of college. Despite the distance, our commitment to each other never wavered. And now, having graduated and entered our new lives, we are actively working towards closing the long-distance gap.
Liam surprised Tina on February 10th, 2023 with a trip to Alabama and proposed along beautiful Mobile Bay. We could not be more excited to be married in July of 2024! Every day we are grateful that we have made it this far together, and we know that we are ready to take on any challenges that may come in the future as a married couple.